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Windows 7: Problem with DVD/CD-RW Drive, won't read any disk

I have a Dell Vostro 1510, running Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 64-bit. Optical Drive is a TEAC CD-RW/DVD DW224SLR ATA drive. When I try to read any disk (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM) or burn a CD-R or CD-RW, the computer won't even recognize that there is a disk in the drive. What it will do, however, is spin up the disk as if it will read it. Then, it stops the disk for about 2 seconds and then spins it up. After this, the disk stays spinning and it won't come up in My Computer or a command prompt. However, I have isolated the cause to be a software problem, as the computer will boot up to a disk, I've tried both the Windows XP CD and a Windows 7 DVD. This just started yesterday, and since then, I have tried uninstalling and reinstalling the driver software for the drive, and all Windows does is tell me that the best driver is already installed. Suggestions? I will attach an audio file of the CD drive trying to work.

I'm assuming you've already tried a system restore to a point before this started? (Easiest first)Have you tried running an sfc/scannow? It will check for and possibly fix any corrupted system files. We have many excellent tutorials here at the forums, just click on the link :

I had the same exact problem with mine awhile back. Ran every diagnostic there is and everything said it was fine, but the problem persisted. I was due for a fresh install anyway and it worked just fine after that. If the sfc/scannow doesn't fix it maybe you could consider either a repair install or a complete fresh install.

I have a Dell Vostro 1510, running Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 64-bit. Optical Drive is a TEAC CD-RW/DVD DW224SLR ATA drive. When I try to read any disk (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM) or burn a CD-R or CD-RW, the computer won't even recognize that there is a disk in the drive. What it will do, however, is spin up the disk as if it will read it. Then, it stops the disk for about 2 seconds and then spins it up. After this, the disk stays spinning and it won't come up in My Computer or a command prompt. However, I have isolated the cause to be a software problem, as the computer will boot up to a disk, I've tried both the Windows XP CD and a Windows 7 DVD. This just started yesterday, and since then, I have tried uninstalling and reinstalling the driver software for the drive, and all Windows does is tell me that the best driver is already installed. Suggestions? I will attach an audio file of the CD drive trying to work.

If you feel you need any more details, I would be happy to provide them.

Thanks!

Hi bennythebaker,

Welcome to Seven forums.

Normally this issue occurs due to the drivers not loading properly. You should perform the methods suggested by other users which should resolve the issue.

If not you can manually edit the registry and remove filters to resolve this issue:

Deleting Filters

1. Click the Start button, click on start search box, type regedit in the box, and then click OK.
2. In Registry Editor, expand the following registry path:
3. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class
Note:
To expand the registry path, click the plus sign (+) that appears next to each node in the left pane. When the plus sign is clicked, the node expands and the appropriate registry subkeys are displayed under the node. In Registry Editor, the registry subkeys appear as folders
4. Under Class, click {4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}.
5. In the right pane, right-click Upper Filters, and then click Delete.
6. Click Yes when prompted to delete the registry value.
7. In the right pane, right-click Lower Filters, and then click Delete.
8. Click Yes when prompted to delete the registry value.
9. Quit Registry Editor. To do this, click Exit on the File menu.
10. Restart the computer.

It is advisable to have a backup of registry before attempting above steps:

UPDATE: I ended up running into several other problems with Windows 7, so what I did is formatted the hard drive and installed Windows XP Home SP2 (because for some reason, the computer wouldn't install Windows 7 from the DVD when I booted from it.) I am having the same problem, but when I insert a disk, the D: drive icon changes to CD-ROM or DVD-ROM, whichever is inserted. When I double-click the icon, the window is empty. Ideas?

No need to reinstall a dead OS. You can also reinstall Win7 from flash stick. Use the licensed version and tool to write to stick from Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7 which will assure you get and keep a perfect install. Be sure to read the Note for Dell Owners at end.

UPDATE: I ended up running into several other problems with Windows 7, so what I did is formatted the hard drive and installed Windows XP Home SP2 (because for some reason, the computer wouldn't install Windows 7 from the DVD when I booted from it.) I am having the same problem, but when I insert a disk, the D: drive icon changes to CD-ROM or DVD-ROM, whichever is inserted. When I double-click the icon, the window is empty. Ideas?

Hi bennythebaker,

Its correctly stated by Greg it seems DVD drive would be faulty. Just confirm the Windows 7 disc you made is good and works on other system. If this system doesn't boot from the disc then it would be DVD drive at fault and you would need a replacement.

If the system is under warranty then please contact me through a private message and provide your service tag and contact information so I may access your system records.

And, if the system is out of warranty then you contact our Expired Warranty Support at the link below:

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